Civil courts of first instance

Verified 08 July 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)

The civil courts of first instance are the courts that judge for the first time the disputes between private individuals (individuals, companies, etc.). These courts have the possibility to punish the party at fault in a case (for example, by ordering him to settle damages and interest). However, they cannot impose criminal sanctions.

  • Court of Justice and Local Court

    In civil matters, the court of justice is the court most seized. It has exclusive jurisdiction in a large number of areas (rent, adoption, divorce, inheritance, changes in civil status, etc.) In these areas, the court is seised regardless of the value of the dispute.

    Where the court has no exclusive jurisdiction and the amount of the dispute is less than €10,000, it is the local court which is responsible for judging the case (provided that there is one in the commune where the defendant).

    Voir la page "Court of Justice and Local Court" sur le site www.justice.gouv.fr

    Ministry of Justice

  • Labor Court Council

    The Labor Court adjudicates labor disputes in the private sector. It is divided into 5 sections composed of lay judges (labor court advisors) representing egalitarian employees (or apprentices) and employers.

    Voir la page "Labor Court Council" sur le site travail-emploi.gouv.fr

    Ministry of Labor

  • The Commercial Court

    The Commercial Court adjudicates disputes between traders or between an individual and a trader. It is also competent to adjudicate disputes concerning acts of commerce and to support companies in difficulty. It also performs an administrative function through its registry (e.g. register of trade and businesses).

    Voir la page "The Commercial Court" sur le site www.justice.gouv.fr

    Ministry of Justice

  • The Joint Court for Rural Leases

    The Joint Court for Rural Leases is competent to settle disputes that have occurred during the execution of a contract. rural lease.

    Voir la page "The Joint Court for Rural Leases" sur le site www.justice.gouv.fr

    Ministry of Justice

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